New Zealand to Lift Mandatory Removable Battery Rule for Vapes – But Disposable Ban Remains.

In a significant regulatory shift for the vaping industry, the New Zealand coalition government has announced that the rule requiring e-cigarette devices to have removable batteries will be lifted as of 1 September 2025. This move marks a reversal of a mandate introduced in 2023, which aimed to improve battery safety and promote environmental responsibility.

While the change has been welcomed by both retailers and harm reduction advocates, the government has reaffirmed that the ban on disposable vaping devices will remain firmly in place across the country.

What’s Staying the Same?

Despite the policy change on batteries, the ban on single-use disposable vape devices remains unchanged.

The government stands firm for disposables continues to reflect mounting concerns around:

• Youth accessibility and appeal of cheap, brightly-coloured, high-nicotine vapes,
• Environmental impact from the improper disposal of lithium batteries and non-recyclable components,
• And public pressure from health groups and schools to curb rising youth vaping rates.

The Ministry of Health has reiterated that while they support regulated access for adults trying to quit smoking, single-use vapes pose more harm than benefit due to their nature and widespread misuse.

Industry and Public Response

The vaping and retail industry has largely welcomed the removal of the battery regulation, calling it a “practical” and “consumer-centric” step. Many believe the prior rule created unnecessary barriers to innovation and didn’t align with the types of devices proven to help adult smokers transition away from combustible tobacco.

As a brand that has been compliant in one of the world’s most regulated industries, AIRSCREAM’s AirsPops range has consistently stayed within the lines – designing devices specifically intended for regulated markets like New Zealand. AIRSCREAM is the choice for adult smokers seeking a compliant electronic nicotine delivery system, designed with safety, reliability, and quality in mind.

With the updated regulations, consumers in the region can rest assured that AIRSCREAM is well-prepared to offer quality, reliable options to support their journey to quit smoking.

Public health advocates, meanwhile, have called for continued vigilance. They argue that although lifting the battery requirement makes products more accessible, enforcement on age restrictions, product marketing, and continued bans on disposables must remain strong to prevent youth uptake.

What This Means for Consumers

• More Device Variety: Expect a wider range of modern, closed-pod and integrated battery vape kits to become available in stores again.
• No Disposables: Don’t expect to see the return of disposable brands – these remain prohibited.
• Retailer Compliance: Vape shops and licensed retailers will need to adjust their inventory and marketing strategies before the September deadline.

Explore AIRSCREAM’s AirsPops Latest Range

Looking for trusted, compliant vape products?

Check out our latest AirsPops devices and accessories – designed for adult smokers, available now in New Zealand.

Visit AIRSCREAM New Zealand to shop the range.